Hair Care – The Hairstyle Bloghttp://hairstyle-blog.com
The Hairstyle Blog is the definitive source for everything about hairstyles including the latest hairstyle trends and hair care products. Barb Quinn blogs on a wide range of topics related to hair care- from choosing the hairstyle that suits a particular face or type of hair to choosing the right hair stylist or what products to use. This blog is a must read for anyone serious about their hairstylesSat, 16 Dec 2017 21:02:51 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.4Dandruff and Dry Itchy Scalp Trouble Shootinghttp://hairstyle-blog.com/dandruff-dry-itchy-scalp-trouble-shooting.html
http://hairstyle-blog.com/dandruff-dry-itchy-scalp-trouble-shooting.html#commentsMon, 29 Dec 2014 22:24:35 +0000http://hairstyle-blog.com/?p=30672It probably doesn’t matter to you whether it is your dandruff and dry, itchy scalp or seborrheic dermatitis. What does matter is, you just want to fix it.

Reportedly, about one in five people have tried at least one hair remedy for dandruff sometime in their life. Even though dandruff is a harmless condition, it can be both annoying and embarrassing for people who have it. Dandruff can be caused by a variety of things, including an overproduction of a type of yeast on the scalp, stress, sickness and even the change of seasons.

Sometimes, what’s believed to be dandruff is simply shampoo residue from sloppy rinsing or flaking from that gel you’re hooked on. Or it could be dry scalp caused by dry indoor heat, harsh shampoos, too-frequent shampooing, conditioners or gels applied directly to the scalp, hair processing, or a too-hot blast from a hair dryer.

Flaking Scalp

It probably doesn’t matter much to you whether your problem is dandruff and dry itchy scalp, or seborrheic dermatitis. What does matter is that you’re afflicted with a flaky, itchy, tight, or inflamed scalp, and you just want to fix it.

Dandruff and dry, itchy scalp are both considered forms of dermatitis. Dandruff is often mistaken for a dry scalp, but it can afflict an oily scalp just as easily as a dry one. It’s believed that dandruff is caused by an overgrowth of yeast that’s found in moderation even on healthy scalps. The yeast, Pityrosporum ovale, irritates the oil glands below the surface, and the scalp responds by accelerating the cell turnover. Dandruff results when the skin cells divide and multiply at such an accelerated rate that they reach the surface before they die and clump there, These flakes of white, scaly skin look bad, and they itch.

Sometimes, what’s believed to be dandruff is simply shampoo residue from sloppy rinsing or flaking from that gel you’re hooked on. Or it could be dry scalp caused by dry indoor heat, harsh shampoos, too-frequent shampooing, conditioners or gels applied directly to the scalp, hair processing, or a too-hot blast from a hair dryer.

If you’re coloring, perming, relaxing, or straightening your hair, your scalp can become oily, flaky, and inflamed, which may mean that you have a more severe form of dermatitis called seborrhea. One common mistake is to treat seborrhea with a harsh dandruff shampoo–that only makes it worse. So, first of all you need to know what kind of problem you have. Here’s how you can tell:

Dandruff Test

Turn your head upside down and brush or vigorously rub your scalp, back and forth with fingers over a sheet of dark paper. If you see tiny, dry, powdery hits, you have dry scalp. If the flakes are larger and look slightly moist or greasy. they’re dandruff. If you have large greasy flakes and your scalp is irritated and red, chances are you have seborrhea. If the scales stick to the scalp, it may be psoriasis, and if it doesn’t clear up, consult a dermatologist.

If what you have is dry scalp, first use a clarifying shampoo with cider vinegar to remove any buildup of shampoo or conditioner on the scalp. Then try an oil treatment or scalp cream designed for dry. Itchy scalp: Kiehl’s Enriched Massage Oil for Scalp, Phyto Therathrie Phytopolleine. or René Furterer Carthame Intensive Oil Supplement for Dry Hair & Scalp.

Although dandruff is generally believed not to be caused by microbes, most anti-dandruff shampoos are germicides. Go figure, most contain one of the five ingredients approved by the FDA for fighting dandruff: salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, sulfur, selenium sulfide, and coal-tar. All of these ingredients will really dry out your scalp and your hair along with it, which puts you in the front seat of the beauty roller coaster: you got rid of your dandruff, all right, but now your hair looks like straw. Why go through all that when you can prevent dandruff in the first place?

Dandruff is seasonal, occurring more frequently and more severely from October to March, when your hair is exposed to dry indoor heat. So use the following simple rinse every couple of weeks to stay on top of the flakes.

Beating Dandruff the Gentle Way

Tea tree oil is an herbal antiseptic that many physicians now believe fights bacteria and yeast buildup. Try a tea tree oil shampoo like Desert Essence Keep-the-Clean Wash Shampoo, Nature’s Gate Rainwater Herbal Tea Tree Oil Shampoo, or Terrain Tea Tree Shampoo. Alphaworks by ABBA is a little stronger, because it contains AHAs along with the tea tree oil. You can also mix two drops of tea tree oil in your palm with your regular shampoo. Try this three times a week for three weeks and see if it helps.

A hair remedy that I recommend to my clients for dandruff and itchy scalp is Redken Dandruff Control. The active ingredient, pyrithione zinc, works to reduce flaking, irritation and itching according to Redken. The Redken Dandruff Control line also has a conditioner and leave-in treatment. For stubborn dandruff, try René Furterer Melaleuca Shampoo (tea tree oil with zinc pyrithione—it’s strong), Avon Controlling Dandruff Shampoo, or Phvto Therathrie Phytocyres, Philip B. Anti-Flake.

Dandruff Defying Rinse

A few sprigs of rosemary, 2 cups water
1. Boil the rosemary in the water and cool.
2. Rinse through the hair and massage into the scalp.

Antiseptic botanicals like tea tree Oh (aka melaleuca) are terrific alternatives to harsh dandruff shampoos. But they remain a big secret because they’re not FDA-approved for use as “dandruff shampoos.” Nonetheless, gentle shampoos that include tea tree oil, rosemary, or sage can really work to control dandruff, and they won’t dry out your scalp or hair. If your flaking is severe, you may need a true dandruff shampoo. In that case, alternate your dandruff shampoo with a gentle herbal shampoo to go easier on your hair and scalp. It’s worth the splurge for a better-quality dandruff shampoo especially since it will last longer because you won’t use it for every shampoo.

Tea tree oil is an herbal antiseptic that many physicians now believe fights bacteria and yeast buildup. I would recommend that you look for the best tea tree oil made from natural and natural ingredients. Through the genuine tea tree oil, it will improve your scalp health and get rid of dandruff efficiently.

]]>http://hairstyle-blog.com/dandruff-dry-itchy-scalp-trouble-shooting.html/feed7Head Lice Pictures Help to Identify Nitshttp://hairstyle-blog.com/head-lice-pictures-help-identify-nits.html
http://hairstyle-blog.com/head-lice-pictures-help-identify-nits.html#commentsMon, 22 Dec 2014 20:30:09 +0000http://hairstyle-blog.com/?p=30662I didn’t especially want to post these creepy head lice pictures . . . but if
you have kids, you need to know how to identify these bugs sooner than later!

When kids go back to school, they are susceptible to bringing home many different ‘catchy’ ailments of one type or another and head lice is one of them. Having head lice is NOT a result of poor hygiene, so don’t beat yourself up! It’s an extremely contagious condition as the lice easily transport from one person to another. Signs of head lice can be itchy and tiny yellowish-white eggs or lice that look like small sesame seeds attached to the hair.

If you have young children in school or daycare, you probably have received a letter from the school about head lice. Each year as soon as the weather starts to change and through the winter months, the cases of head lice start to appear. I have found it to be more common when children start to wear hats for the winter.

Once the first case of head lice is reported at school, it can spread like wildfire if it is not nipped in the bud right away. Here is how to check your kids for head lice if you have the slightest doubt.

About head lice, it is the active head lice walking around and hosting on the scalp that creates the itching. Often, it starts in the warmer places, behind the ears and the nape area. The active head lice lay eggs that are called nits. The nits attach themselves to the individual hair strands that hatch in 7 to 10 days, producing more active head lice. Here is what you should be looking for:

The nits are protected by a hardened shell around them, meaning head lice products will not penetrate the shell. When a specific product is used, the active head lice will die and the nits will need to be physically removed with a fine tooth comb. It is a tedious process, especially if the hair is thick. The nits are hard to spot, especially on lighter hair. They have a light pearly look and can often appear to look like dandruff in both light and dark hair.

Hair remedies for head lice include the tried and true over-the-counter head lice treatment shampoos like Nix. Nix Complete Lice Treatment System has proven to be the go-to shampoo for head lice for years! After using the shampoo, run a lice comb through your child’s hair to remove any lice or eggs and then be sure to wash all bedding, clothing, hats, etc. in very hot water to make sure you are rid of all the little creatures!

There are many other over-the-counter products for head lice that work quite effectively, as long as the directions are followed. Ask for the advice of your pharmacist, they stay on top of what’s new and what works best. I would not want to be held accountable if their child has an adverse reaction to the head lice product being used. I definitely would guide them in the process to follow to eliminate the little creatures.

Now, if the eggs hatch in 7 to 10 days, the whole process must be repeated to ensure all the nits are gone and there are no longer active head lice. That is the biggest mistake parents often make – not repeating the process and thinking they are all taken care of. BIG MISTAKE!

And parents, please don’t worry that you did something wrong that resulted in head lice on your child! Head lice do not distinguish between rich or poor, clean or not – it does not matter to them – they just want a host! (And I hope these head lice pictures didn’t creep you out too much!)

A little oil on your scalp is great for shine, but too much makes locks limp and difficult to style. More commonly associated with fine, straight hair, oily, greasy hair can also be genetic and hormone-related. Just as you pay extra attention towards the look of your skin, it is equally important to care for your oily greasy hair as well. Your hair, being the crown of your visual presence plays a major role in one’s personality and beauty. There are various steps that you need to follow to keep oily hair at bay and maintain that sheen in your hair.

Some of the basic procedures you might consider regularly include combing, brushing, conditioning and shampooing. The best brand and type of oily hair shampoo will depend upon the texture of your hair. There are many people who have dry hair and many others who have oily hair.

Oily greasy hair and scalp are an issue seen regularly in the salon. Typically I tell my clients to go at least two days without shampooing, but my clients who have oily, greasy hair, complain that they can’t without looking like an oil slick.

Did you know that frequent shampooing can actually contribute to oily, greasy hair and scalp? Shampooing everyday can strip the hair and scalp of its natural oils and protectants, which triggers your hair follicles to produce more oil. . . and the pattern goes!

Try using a ‘dry shampoo’ like Klorane Extra Gentle Dry Shampoo in-between shampoos to soak up excess oil. Also, when applying conditioner, stay away from the roots of your hair (this is a common mistake). Instead, concentrate the conditioner only on the ends or the effected hair.

Another option is to do a vinegar rinse every few weeks before shampooing. Using one part vinegar to four parts water, apply the solution to your hair (avoiding scalp) and then shampoo and condition as normal.

More Tips for Oily, Greasy Hair

To get rid of the excessive oily, greasy hair you can massage your hair with a mixture of white vinegar and water. Leave it on for a few minutes and rinse.

Shampooing your hair everyday will lessen the secretions of oil on your scalp. But make sure you do not use too much of shampoo on your scalp as it may lead to dryness of the scalp thus causing hair damage. Make sure you thoroughly rinse all of the shampoo residue from your hair.

Cleanse your hair with a mixture of lemon juice and distilled water. This greatly reduces the oily hair.

Do not over use hair products like gels, sprays, creams and mousses. They make the hair oily and create excessive build up on the hair.

Diet also plays a major role in treating oily greasy hair. If you tend to eat excessive amounts of oily foods, the level of oil secretion in your scalp is likely to increase. So its better you stick to fresh fruits and vegetables to give you hair the necessary nourishment.

Limit the use of conditioner on your hair if you have oily hair. Conditioners are best suited for dry hair.

Rinse or soak your hair with weak tea, a lemon’s worth of juice mixed with a cup of water, or 1/4 cup of vinegar with two cups of water to correct your hair’s pH, remove residue and add shine.

Why Bangs Get Greasy and How to Prevent It

There are many different reasons your bangs might begin to look oily or greasy. You’re bound to be the best judge of what is weighing you down. Common reasons include:

Oils from your face/skin – Whether you have an oily complexion or your bangs gets oils from constant touching and fiddling with your hair, this is a common cause of greasy bangs. Fixing the underlying problem, be it blotting your face with blotting paper or finding a way to stop fidgeting will cut down on oily bangs. It can be difficult not to touch your bangs, but the more you fidget, the more they’ll shine.

Too much product – If you regularly apply styling products to your bangs, they can become greasy from product buildup. Ditto on conditioner, which your bangs don’t actually need. Cut way back on the product to enjoy oil-free bangs.

Sweat: Sweat from excess humidity or a power workout will bring grease to your bangs. You can’t stop yourself from sweating, so the key here is prevention. You may want to grow your bangs out for summer so you can pin them back and hide your sweat, or else pull your hair back when you’re hitting up the gym.

Oily hair – If your hair runs oily in general, you are more likely to experience greasy bangs. Washing your hair and your bangs with a shampoo formulated for oily hair will help, as will following the other suggestions mentioned above.

Top Fixes for Oily Greasy Bangs

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your bangs can still get greasy. If this happens, you have a few options for fixing your style quickly. Proven methods include:

Pinning back your bangs – Definitely the simplest fix if you’re out and about, pinning back your bangs doesn’t remove the grease but it does camouflage your bangs (and grease) from sight.

Dry shampoo – If you keep dry shampoo in your purse or your car (hint: If you don’t, you should), a quick spritz will take the grease and oil right out of your bangs.

Wet shampoo – If you’re at home, you can give your bangs a quick shampoo (and towel/blow dry) with your regular shampoo. This is certainly more hands-on than either of these other methods, and will require you to re-style your bangs when they dry, but it will de-grease the bangs. As a rule here, don’t condition your bangs as that will only make them more oily.

Bottom line is, bangs can be difficult and they may not be right for everyone. Hopefully these hair care tips will be helpful for keeping oily greasy hair to a minimum. What other tips do you employ for keeping your bangs free of oil?

The best thing for your hair is to let it dry naturally. But of course, that’s not realistic . . . especially for women with fine hair, most of whom are addicted to the master blaster, with good reason; it’s the ultimate volumizer. If you do blow-dry all the time, at least take a break on the weekend, when you can condition your hair and give it special care. Leave-in conditioners everyday and a deep conditioning treatment or hot oil treatments also help to take the strain off over-processed hair.

To do as little damage as possible, follow these ground rules. If your hair is curly, use a diffuser, which not only helps hold the curl but also diffuses the heat. Also, keep the blower at a low cool setting as much as possible, and hold it four to six inches from your head.

Get the Right Hair Dryer

Not all hair dryers are not created equally. So what makes the grade in my book? The size, the weight and a cool button. A hair dryer that’s light, not too heavy is important. I don’t like hair dryers that are too big. A cool button is important to me . . . you can touch up your look by pumping air back into the hair. A 1,200 to 1,500-watt dryer is powerful enough for most women: if your hair is thick or coarse. You may need 1,700 watts. Experiment with a diffuser or nozzle attachment, I’m addicted to nozzles! They direct the heat when I want to get the hair really straight and smooth, and they don’t ruffle the cuticle.

Buy a Good Hair Brush

I use mostly round brushes on myself, I prefer a Denman brush, which boasts rubber-coated bristles. If I want the hair to be really, really straight, I use the brush at the roots. The rubber grips the hair and allows you to really pull it taut. If you are able to get the first two inches from the roots straight, the rest of the hair will follow. And if you don’t, watch for that mid-morning natural wave to bounce back!

Use a Really Good Volumizing Product

But, take inventory of your hair texture and pick a volumizer that best suits your hair type.

Section Your Hair Off

There’s a reason why stylists section their clients’ hair when blow-drying . . . it provides more control with the brush as well as tension, heat and airflow. Here’s how to achieve smooth, shiny results, just like you get in the salon.

Divide your head into four quadrants and use large clips to hold each section in place as you blow-dry.

Hold the brush in your writing hand and the blow dryer in the other on, keeping them about 1/2″ apart.

Position the dryer parallel to the brush . . . Never put the nozzle directly on the brush, as it will burn the blower motor out, damage the brush’s bristles and burn your hair.

Be Careful Not to Over Dry Your Hair or Style Too Soon

85% is the magic number, over drying can strip your hair of essential moisture, bounce and elasticity. Don’t start styling your hair with a round brush when blow drying until you get about 85% of the moisture out of your hair first, so it’s just damp. One result of over drying hair is a lot of static.

Blow Dry From Roots to Ends

Start by gently blotting your wet hair with a towel. Then, hang your head upside down as you blow dry from roots to ends. Don’t blow into the hair, or you’ll ruffle the hair cuticle. You want to keep your cuticle lying down smoothly. As you are turned upside down, you are giving your hair added volume, and when hair is 85% dry, get out that brush and put some shape in that style.

Dry the Bottom Layers First

Start at the back and dry the under layers first. For straight hair, always direct the blow-dryer down toward the floor: this smooths the hair and prevents frizz. Lean over and blow-dry at the roots to give your hair volume. To add height or volume to the top of your hair, lift the hair from the roots with your fingers (or use your round vent brush or paddle brush) and blow-dry at the roots. For wavy or curly hair, hold the diffuser into the hair (with your head straight up) and work your way around your head, from bottom to top (do not use a brush).

Smooth the Top

When the under layers are dry, use your brush to shape the top layer. Put the bristles against your scalp, turn and lift back small sections of hair, and curl them under until dry.

Curl the Ends

Take your brush and curl the ends under. Brush through and follow with the blow-dryer directed toward your hair. Finish styling with a shot of cold air, which “sets” the style and makes your hair shinier.

]]>http://hairstyle-blog.com/blow-dry-tutorial.html/feed0Winter Hair Care 101; The DIY, How Tohttp://hairstyle-blog.com/winter-hair-care-101-diy.html
http://hairstyle-blog.com/winter-hair-care-101-diy.html#respondTue, 11 Nov 2014 01:32:38 +0000http://hairstyle-blog.com/?p=30403You're going to be seeing a lot of bad hair days if you don't make some adjustments to your hair care routine for winter. Learn 9 simple DIY, How to tips.

As I am creating this article we are under a winter storm warning and the predictions are for 14″ of snow. So we might as well face it Old Man Winter is upon us again. The winter season can be especially hard on hair. My furnace is blasting hot, dry forced air for several hours each day, excessive styling with holiday parties coming up and the harsh winter weather can leave hair more naughty than nice. But don’t get the winter blues over limp, dry locks, try these nine DIY how to quick hair care tips to get your mane on the nice list.

Step 1 ~~ Use Deep Conditioner for Healthier Hair. Be kind to your hair by using a weekly deep conditioner. If you have chemical damage from harsh perms or coloring, use a conditioner with protein to repair hair strands. For hair that has general wear and tear from heat tools & the great outdoors, opt for a moisturizing conditioner. For maximum effect, apply conditioner to wet hair and put on a plastic cap. Open the cuticle by using a blow dryer on low setting to gently heat your head. Wrap in a towel. Rinse after 15 to 20 minutes with cooler water to lock in the moisture. Tip: Ingredients to look for in Protein Rich Conditioners: Silk, Wheat, Keratin, Collagen, Amino Acids. Ingredients to look for in Moisture Rich Conditioners: Glycerin, Oils (Jojoba, Argan, Coconut, Castor, etc.) Fatty Alcohols (Stearyl, Cetyl, & Cetearyl), and Panthenol.)

Step 2 ~~ Try Velcro or Hot Rollers for a Wavy Hairstyle. Velcro and hot rollers are great options to add bounce and volume to tired tresses. Plus, with the help of rollers, you can avoid curling, crimping, and smoothing hair with harsh heat tools which will zap moisture out of your hair. When hair is 90% dry, apply Velcro rollers to give your style volume. Let your hair dry naturally, or use a blow-dryer to set. After you remove the rollers, use a curling iron or flat iron if necessary to touch up your style. If Velcro rollers aren’t for you, try hot rollers on dry hair. Use bigger rollers on the crown area to add volume. Gently run fingers through hair to relax curls that are overly bouncy. Spritz with hairspray, and you’re done.

Step 3 ~~ Beat the Heat Tools with Thermal Protection Products. You’re not alone if you have a hard time breaking your addiction to your trusty flat iron, curling iron, or blow dryer. But, to avoid excessive damage from these tools, always use a thermal protection spray or serum to protect your hair cuticle. Some hair sprays and serums are specially made for damp hair, which is useful to protect hair during blow drying. I’m liking Redken Thermal Setting Mist, (splurge) or Tresemme Heat Tamer Spray Serum. There are plenty of good products for saving hair from excessive heat damage, the key is . . . to use one! Shine sprays and oils are another great option to combat heat damage and promote shiny healthy hair.

Step 4 ~~ Use Hair Friendly Products. Ingredient labels are a useful tool to determine the products that are hair friendly from those that are harmful. You don’t need to be a scientist to decipher the good from the bad, just take a couple notes on what to look for. Hairspray with excessive alcohol will be drying to your hair (with the exception of fatty alcohols, Stearyl, Cetyl, & Cetearyl, and Panthenol. Many hairsprays are now available with low amounts of alcohol or no alcohol at all. The ingredients are listed in a sequence from highest quantity to lowest, so the first ingredient listed is the dominant one. Sulfate free shampoos and conditioners are the “IT” products now because they do the job of cleaning the hair and scalp without using that harsh stripping chemical.

Step 5 ~~ Haircuts are Your Friend. Maintain healthy hair with a visit to your hair stylist every 2 to 3 months. Regular trims prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft. Stop damage in its tracks by getting rid of those ends. Remember that visiting your stylist regularly will ensure that all you need to keep your hair looking healthy is a dusting of your ends, which is especially good news for all you long haired loving ladies!

Step 6 ~~ Use a Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner. Pick up a moisture rich shampoo and conditioner for the winter months, preferably one with vitamins and oils. I recommend L’Oreal Professionanel’s Serie Expert Liss Ultime shampoo and conditioner.

Step 8~~ Use a Thermal Protectant. When blow-drying, always use a thermal spray or serum to protect your hair. Also, be sure to go all the way. Blow-drying hair halfway will only create frizz and damage. Spending the extra 5 minutes blow-drying your hair to a smooth finish makes all the difference.

Step 9 ~~ Never Go Outside with Wet Hair. Wet or even damp hair can easily freeze once temperatures drop into the 30’s, and frozen strands mean split ends or in a worse case scenario hair that actually breaks.

With all those holiday treats, late night soriee’s and other winter festivities, we can’t guarantee you’ll be “nice” all season long but, with these hair tips, you can certainly treat your hair nicely, ensuring shiny, healthy hair all winter long. Now you can focus on picking a bombshell dress to impress your coworkers at that holiday office party, you weren’t sure you wanted to go to! For more winter hair ideas, check out our Pinterest Winter Hair Tips board.

Contributing author Lindsay Hausch has provided clients with professional cutting edge color and cutting techniques at exclusive Paul Mitchell and Bumble and Bumble Signature Salons for the past seven years. She co-founded Sedona Beauty Team, which represents a team of artists that offer luxury, on-location beauty services. She enjoys writing articles that share her expertise. You can follow Lindsay on Twitter and Facebook.

Not too very long ago, the very mention of oils in hair products was unthinkable. Traditionally, oils weren’t considered desirable because they added weight and tackiness. But, professionals see oils very differently now. That’s because there’s an oil boom in the making, as women everywhere are asking for more ways to calm their frizz, while ensuring health and shine. Product companies are answering the call with a plethora of oil options. While the boom is new, oils themselves aren’t. For centuries, women around the globe have used botanical oils to lend their hair healthy sheen and appealing fragrance.

Argania spinosa kernel oil, or Argan oil, has been the superstar, with companies such as Moroccanoil, Agadir, Orofluido and DermOrganic creating entire lines around it. Argan oil is produced from the kernels of the Argan tree, which is indigenous to southwestern Morocco. The oil softens thick, coarse and unruly hair, and brings shine to dull hair. High in vitamin E, Argan oil also provides natural UV protection, which is especially beneficial for color-treated hair, but works on all hair types.

While Argan oils are definitely the most popular in this vast market, many companies have been blending it with other popular, health-boosting ingredients such as pequi and amla oils.

For example, Macadamia Natural Oil combines Argan with macadamia seed oils. The matching of these two oils, the performance of the product is unparalleled as far as the absorbency and as far as the great benefits. The combination of the two oils gives hair elasticity which prevents breakage and split ends.

Although many women expect hair oils to leave a greasy residue, these oils can actually have the opposite effect, even with daily use. Many women who have finer hair will typically have an oilier scalp this helps even out the porosity in the hair. The oils also help speed up blow-drying time, similar to the way oil and water separate.

When combined with an oil, certain extracts like aloe vera, which is said to heal minor skin injuries, can help repair a scalp that’s been damaged by chemical processing. If your scalp is on the dry side, most of the time, you need to have a combination of natural and synthetic materials.

Botanicals have been around for a long time and as hair styles have changed, things become sort of cyclical. Botanical oils are gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers who have been pushing the envelope toward natural ingredients in food, personal care, and health.

One of the pioneers in the oil boom is Moroccanoil, which introduced its signature Moroccanoil three years ago. Driven bv the success of the initial products, the company has introduced new products ever since.

The popularity of the Moroccanoil products was especially evident among curly head women and the hair stylists who use the products. As a result the company answered the demand with several curl-specific products containing its argan oil. The line now boasts a curl-defining mousse, curl control cream and intense curl cream. Moroccanoil infuses their argan oil with vitamin A, E and F to protect against free-radicals.

What makes the Moroccanoil curl line so unique is that the formulas work on dry and wet hair. These formulations not only make styling easier, but they also decrease fizz, make curls more manageable, and restore moisture to the hair.

Now there are a number of great oils available, including: Mizani Supreme Oil; Oscar Blandi products with jasmine oil; Oribe Haircare’s oil-infused products; and Alterna’s Bamboo Smooth Kendi Oil.

Oils and Their Benefits

Abyssinian Oil is a natural vegetable oil that contains a high percentage of unsaturated C22 fatty acids and produces a natural radiant luster. It will form a light continuous lipid layer to help detangle the hair and lock in essential moisture.

Amla Oil is considered one of the world’s oldest natural hair conditioners is marketed to stimulate hair growth and pigmentation and prevent premature graying of hair and dandruff, while increasing the strength of your hair follicles.

Argan Oil hydrates the hair, penetrating into the hair shaft and enhancing elasticity. It is especially good for uncontrollable and, unmanageable hair, restoring and repairing damage.

Avocado Oil is a perfect oil or dry hair and is full of vitamins such as A, E. D and potassium. This oil is typically added to other carrier oils for a deep treatment.

Castor Oil is rich in ricinoleic acid {triglyceride of fatty acid), and is marketed as nourishing to the hair and good for preventing a dry scalp. When added to hair care products, castor oil can seal in moisture, as well as and thicken hair.

Coconut Oil helps in the lubrication of the hair. It hair and conditions the scalp, and provides the essential proteins for nourishing damaged hair. Also good for dandruff.

]]>http://hairstyle-blog.com/hair-oil-101-tutorial.html/feed0How to Get Rid of Frizzy Hairhttp://hairstyle-blog.com/how-to-get-rid-of-frizzy-hair.html
http://hairstyle-blog.com/how-to-get-rid-of-frizzy-hair.html#commentsMon, 03 Nov 2014 20:10:26 +0000http://hairstyle-blog.com/?p=30369The first time I heard the term "Bad Hair Day" I knew instantly what that meant . . . Frizz. Come learn my favorite tips on How to Get Rid of Frizzy Hair.

]]>13 Things About How to Get Rid of Frizzy Hair Your Mom Never Told You About

As the indoor forced air heat days approach, so does the dry air triggering our hair to become uncontrollable and seemingly impossible to maintain. But don’t worry, it’s possible to turn those frizzy hair curls into beachy waves, or the “frizzy-ness” into a more sleek and smooth look. This is a common concern my clients have in the heat of the cold air of fall and winter and I’m excited to share these tips. Here are some simple steps to follow to say “goodbye” to frizzy hair.

Shampoo

Don’t wash your hair every day. Only wash it every couple of days to keep its natural oils. Learn how to create some second day hair looks.

Use a moisturizing shampoo which is low in alkaline. High alkaline shampoo tends to dry out your hair.

Conditioner

Always, always, always use conditioner.

If you have fine or thin hair use a volumizing conditioner.

Use only a small amount on the ends and work it through your hair.

For all hair types, use a leave-in conditioner. This will help control your “flyaways” and protect your hair from heat.

Good Maintenance Routine

Everyone’s hair is different. After a couple of applications you will know how much product is right for you. But remember, less is more! You can always add more product, but using too much can cause your hair to look and feel oily.

Apply these products while your hair is still wet.

Emulsify a dime size amount of product in your hands to get an even application. Repeat till proper amount is achieved.

Hot Styling Tools

If letting your hair air-dry doesn’t work for you, or you just want a smoother look, use hot tools.

Hot flat irons are great to tame down summer frizzy hair.

The hotter and more powerful the blow dryer, the better it is at smoothing your hair. The high heat will help make your hair smooth and shiny.

Moroccanoil to Balance Hair Moisture to Tame Friz

I have discovered one universal truth: How a woman feels about herself inextricably linked to how she feels about her hair. I’ve found that incorporating simple, effective products like Moroccanoil Frizz Control, into a woman’s routine is an effortless way to lift her spirits.

No type of hair—healthy or dry, curly or straight—is immune to frizz. Humidity, over-processing and excessive brushing, combing or heat styling can cause the hair cuticle to open giving your cuticles a rough surface. The only way to quiet frizz and return hair to its optimal health is to seal those cuticles.

Creating head turning hairstyles is simple. First, be sure to wash and condition with moisturizing, frizz-taming products like Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo and Conditìoner (other shampoos can be harsh and chemical-laden which further dehydrates hair and actually causes frizz). Then, apply a small amount of Moroccanoil Treatment to-clean, towel-dried hair. Blow-dry to remove excess moisture. Spray 3—5 pumps of Frizz Control approximately 10 inches from damp hair and comb through. Separate the hair into clean sections. Using a large round brush, blow-dry each section straight, from roots to ends.

To create a bit of volume at the crown, lift the top section and apply heat to the roots. For hair that will get noticed, part hair down the middle and finish with a few drops of Moroccanoil Treatment for added shine – and protection.

Maybe you want to experiment with a new look. Maybe you want to give your hair a rest. Maybe your hair is thinning and you want to give it a little extra oomph. Maybe you like flinging hair over your shoulders every once in a while. Why not? Go for it!

You’ll be in good company. Celebrities of almost every stripe all have experimented with hair extensions, weaves and wigs of all sorts. Long, thick, luscious hair is in. . . Women of all races and all hair types are demanding hair that’s long, longer, longest and thick, thicker, thickest. It doesn’t mean that they’re trying to be something they’re not. They just like having options. Like a hairbrush or a blow-dryer, weaves, wigs and extensions can be useful styling tools. A little artificial hair can let you try on a new look. If your hair is fragile, wearing a weave can protect it for awhile. It can give your locks some much-needed volume.

There are so many options available now regarding cost and lifestyle, such as clip-in or tape-in extensions, heated seal applications, and/or bead attachments. . . all providing different effects, longevity and costs.

If you’re going to fake it, you’ve got to do it right. And doing it right means, above all, making sure that your natural hair is kept clean, conditioned and stress-free. So before you reach for that plug of hair, make sure that you do your homework. Read on, and I’ll tell you everything you need to know about hair extensions.

Clip-In Hair Extensions

Clip-in hair extensions just keep becoming more and more popular because of their ease and versatility. With clip-in hair extensions you can add hair just for one night, or add in a strand or two of a contrasting color just for fun. Clip-in hair extensions offer length and thickness those other types of hair extensions offer, but without the commitment of both money and time.

You can expect to pay around $100 for full clip-in hair extensions like Jessica Simpson and Ken Paves line called, HairDo. If you simply want to add in a strand or two of color, expect to pay about $10-$30 per color strand. Also, keep in mind that these prices are for synthetic hair extensions, which cannot be styled with heated styling tools or colored. For clip-in human hair extensions, expect to pay twice as much, if not more.

I recommend clip-in hair extensions to my clients who want longer, thicker hair for just one night or for occasional use. We get lots of requests for clip-in hair extensions at the shop just before prom. Clip-in hair extensions are ideal for creating new do’s for prom or anytime. They are affordable, easy to work with and can be used over and over again . . . that’s why they are my favorite!

Weave-In Hair Extensions

Weave-in hair extensions are most popular in the African-American community. Weave-in hair extensions have been around for such a long time. The way hair extensions are weaved in is that a portion or all of your natural hair is braided up and then a hair net is placed over the braided hair. The human hair is then weaved into or sewn into the braids or the hair net. This gives someone who doesn’t have ideal hair naturally the opportunity to have the illusion of long, thick, silky hair.

Weave-in hair extensions vary so greatly in prices depending on the cost of the hair, how much hair you are using and the cost that the hairdresser charges you for the service. They can run from the high hundreds to even a few thousand dollars!

Fusion Hair Extensions

This video helps to explain the fusion hair extension technique. This is a natural looking style using human hair extensions. Bonded to your natural hair, these human hair extensions are bonded with a wax based bond. The benefits of these extensions are that they are virtually undetectable. You can’t see where they are attached and they blend well with your own hair. Fusion hair extensions are quite costly and can cost upwards of $650. However, these extensions last about 3-4 months, so the cost might be well worth it for some.

Handle With Care

It’s important to know how to care for your investment, here are some helpful tips to help you accomplish that goal.

Don’t Shampoo as often ~~ No massaging at the scalp. Instead, glide your fingers over the scalp gently. You can use conditioner, but only through the ends and not where they extension has been attached. Skip a day of wet shampooing and use a dry shampoo in between.

Use Conditioner Carefully ~~ Conditioners should never be sprayed near the attachment such as the scalp area because it can loosen it. Try Simply Smooth Keratin Replenishing Magic Potion to maintain the quality of the hair extensions. At night, put your hair into a loose braid so it doesn’t tangle.

Comb and Brush With Care ~~ I recommend picking up the hair in your hands into a ponytail and comb from the bottom up. . . never combing at the scalp area.

Blow Dry With Ease ~~ Use only boar-bristle brushes as they are more gentle.

Watch The Heat When Flat Ironing ~~ Be sure not to have the temperature too high. I suggest 375 degrees . . . depending upon the hair texture.

I can assume if you’re reading this that you have curly hair and like so many of my curly haired clients, you hate your curly hair . . . right? Well, not so fast! Haven’t you heard others tell you how they wish they had your curls? You just haven’t learned to love each and every curl that crowns your pretty head yet. I am here to convert you with some of my favorite hacks for curly hair:

Curly Hair Tip #1 Get The Right Haircut! ~~ Some hairdresser’s are scared of dealing with curly hair and only know how to cut it like they would other hair types, and this is where the problems for your hair begins. When cutting curly hair you don’t want to end up with a triangle head or god forbid the poodle look –eek! This is my nightmare, so I can only imagine how you all feel walking out of a salon if you have had a bad experience.

I’ve learned when cutting curly hair, to always use cutting scissors and not thinning shears. Visual cutting is really important for taking weight out and shaping curly hair. I always cut curly hair at an angle, that way you keep the natural movement of the curl happening. Also, I’ve found standing back and looking at how the curls falls naturally after being cut, is huge in getting a great shape. I use my cutting scissors to take each section and softly cut into the hair to remove weight. Long layers are good to help take the weight from the bottom of your hair without causing the dreaded triangle shape. No short layers, especially with long hairstyles, as this is when you end up with a curly mullet (it’s not the 80’s).

Curly Hair Tip #2 Use the Right Products ~~ Now to keep your hair looking as yummy as possible, you need to use good products formulated for your hair type. No hard sell I promise, as I’m sure you have a whole drawer or cupboard full of hair products and could probably open up your own store :) The good news . . . with the right kind of hair products, you only need 4 or 5 max.

I use Schwarzkopf products and I am in love with the Schwarzkopf Curl Bounce line. OK, I’ll get the boring science part over, but it really works, I promise! The Curl Bounce line contains the innovative Polyquaternium 72, Panthenol and Cactus Flower extract. This restores the natural balance of moisture in your curls and the memory agents control frizz. After only a couple of washes, you’ll see great results. Like magic, it remembers your curl type.

Curly Hair Tip #3 The Comb Out and Rinse ~~ After you shampoo and condition your hair in the shower, use a wide toothed comb to detangle your curls before your final rinse. Then rinse for about 10 seconds with cold water, this helps close your cuticle and helps smooth and control your curls. Never towel dry curly hair by rubbing your head, you know you do it! This causes friction and will make your curls frizzy and you’ll spend way too long trying to comb through your matted hair. Instead, squeeze water out with a towel, you will be amazed at the difference.

Curly Hair Tip #4 The Diamond Shape ~~ Great haircuts for curly heads have a diamond shape. Keeping the height and weight toward the top and cheekbones, and having hair tapered around the face. Have your hair stylist carve out your curls to create definition and movement.

Curly Hair Tip #5 Restructuring ~~ Curl can be fragile, so you need to strengthen while taming frizz, adding manageability and restructuring from the inside out. That’s a tall order, but the new Rusk Multi 12-in1 Miracle Treatment does all that and more . . . it’s like getting your curly locks into rehab.

Curly Hair Tip #6 Try Loose Curls ~~ When classic spirals get boring, create a loose, less-defined look with finger-combing technique. Work a lightweight anti-frizz serum through damp hair to detangle and separate curls . . . . try Paul Mitchell Smoothing Gloss Drops. Next, flip your head over and apply a curl-activator like VO5 Curvaceous Curls Styling Mousse. Then take haphazard sections and twist them like a rope, wrapping each one around your finger before pinning in place. Blow-dry using a low heat setting, unpin the twists and gently shake your ringlets loose.

Curly Hair Tip #7 Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize ~~ Curly hair’s biggest challenge is lack of moisture . . . the natural oils from your scalp do not travel to the ends because of the curl pattern. Keeping it hydrated is key! Start with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner and they recommend a weekly deep treatment with MoroccanOil Intense Hydrating Mask. Wearing hair curly requires products that control frizz and add definition.

Curly Hair Tip #8 Skip a Couple Shampoos ~~ Curly girls who want a change can start by flat-ironing. Next, you maximize your style over time by skipping shampoos for a few days. On the second day when curl starts to come back, run a flat iron through hair and mist with Redken Wax Blast 10, which acts as a light frizz-tamer. Day three, use a dry shampoo on the scalp, like Redken Powder Refresh), brushing it through and applying heat from your blower if needed. On day four, pull your hair back into a ponytail, wet down your bangs if you have them, and blow-dry the fringe only.

Curly Hair Tip #9 Keep it Healthy ~~ Keeping hair healthy is essential for control and frizz-prevention. I recommend Redken’s Fresh Curls system, which includes a shampoo, a conditioner, Styling Mousse, Curl Refiner, Spin Control and Curl Boost Spray Gel. How do you know which to use for what? The mousse is designed to add oomph to looser, “lazier” curl. The Curl Refiner is like a leave-in conditioning treatment, making it perfect for keeping long, curly hair hydrated and soft.

Curly Hair Tip #10 Fluff it Up! ~~ Okay, you know you have to hydrate curl, but what do you do once the conditioner is on? Detangle with a wide-toothed comb,. Next, scrunch with a towel: don’t “rub” the hair dry or you’ll ru9in curl definition and create frizz. Don’t brush your hair. Work in Wella Professionals Enrich Bouncy Foam, a leave-in reconstructor that conditions curl. Follow with Wella Professionals Elastic Energy curl-enhancing mousse, applying it evenly through hair and finger-combing it in. Once hair is dry, place your fingertips at the roots and give yourself a scalp massage. This fluffs up the interior without disturbing the exterior. Diffuse-dry with your head bent forward, and you’re done.

Curly Hair Tip #11 Give it an Undercut ~~ For coarse hair, consider leaving the length. Add lots of face-framing layers, and ask for “undercutting” to remover bulk and weight.

]]>http://hairstyle-blog.com/curly-hair-tips-2.html/feed1How to End the Struggle With Naturally Curly Hairhttp://hairstyle-blog.com/naturally-curly.html
http://hairstyle-blog.com/naturally-curly.html#commentsWed, 22 Oct 2014 17:09:52 +0000http://hairstyle-blog.com/?p=30263Trying to get your naturally curly hair to do something that nature never intended will not result in healthy, beautiful hair. Come learn how to end the war

As a stylist, I cringe whenever one of my naturally curly clients asks me to straighten her curls. Why are so many women, who are blessed by goddess like natural curls straightening them out? I believe it’s time for a curly #HaiRevolution. I’m on a mission to convince women to embrace their Aphrodite locks and ditch the flat irons. It’s high time the world sees that curls are where it’s at!

I think one of the main reasons so many women abandon their natural curls is they have always believed that curls are a curse instead of a blessing. If you learn the tricks of how to maximize the true nature of your naturally curly hair, you can end the battle of trying to get your hair to do things that nature never intended. Never fear, with these pointers you will be frizz free and curl gorgeous.

Moisture, Moisture, Moisture

Did I mention moisture? Naturally curly hair, by its very nature will always be drier in texture, because all those twists and kinks in the hair prevent the natural oils from the scalp finding their way to the ends of the hair.

A naturally curly girls best friend should be her hair care routine. If you get the foundations wrong, you’re doomed to a life of frizz but get it right, and gorgeous, jealousy provoking curls are yours to own forever.

Look for a shampoo that is sulfate free and moisturizing. Sulfates and parabens remove the natural oils from your hair, naturally curly hair needs those oils. Always follow with a moisturizing conditioner. Look for descriptions such as replenish, quench and revitalize. A deep conditioning treatment once a week will rehydrate naturally curly hair, eliminating frizz and helping your curls to form into their natural coil.

Styling products specially formulated for naturally curly hair will be packed full of frizz busting, moisture boosting ingredients. Try layering a couple of products. For a natural look, a serum mixed with a hydrating curl cream will allow curls to form into their own beautiful organic form. A serum worked through, followed by a moisturizing sculpting foam will add definition and separation to curls.

Ditch The Heat

Hair dryers aren’t great for naturally curly hair. They tend to make the curls look frizzy, resulting in both your curls and your nerves being frazzled! Whenever possible, allow curls to dry naturally, just a little scrunch in the palm of your hand every now and then will help the curls to form. If you need to use heat, use a hair dryer with a diffuser and simply place the hair into the diffuser and allow the warm air to do its magic. To help eliminate frizz, keep the dryer on medium heat and a slow speed setting. Leaving the hair just slightly damp will also help with the frizz fight.

Shape and Styling

Naturally curly hair will always look dull and frizzy if the ends are split so regular trims are essential for maintaining beautiful curly hair. However, it’s worth choosing your hair stylist carefully. Ask if there is a stylist who specializes in curly hair as naturally curly hair that is cut wrong is a nightmare. There’s nowhere to hide if layers are cut into the wrong shape. You can feel like you’ve got a triangle, or worse, a sheep stuck on your head!

At school I was great chums with a girl whose mother kept her blonde natural curls cropped close to her head, around 3 inches in length overall. My friend spent her school years answering to the nickname ‘Sheepy’. I’m guessing school probably wasn’t her best time. However, when she reached sixteen and started to take control over her own appearance, she grew her hair out. The result? Beautiful! Her long mane of golden ringlets were ‘stop you in your tracks’ stunning. My friend transformed into Rapunzel and was never known as ‘Sheepy’ again.

The moral of this blast from my past? Naturally curly hair is best left at a length where the curls can show off their glorious form. Too short and it’s just a ball of fluff. Don’t for one minute think that shorter hair means less work, as with naturally curly hair this is rarely the case.

Give it Time

If you’ve spent a lifetime straightening your hair, its going to take a few weeks for the curls to come back into their own, so choose your return to the curly world carefully. You will need time to put in place all the above steps. It will probably look horrendous the first few times you attempt to wear it curly. Perseverance is crucial, so keep following the steps and, I promise, it will pay off. Each time you shampoo, moisturize and allow your hair to dry curly, you will be a step closer. Low maintenance, beautiful curls are within your reach I promise!

Work It!

Now you’ve successfully embraced your curly locks, leaving all your straight haired girlfriends green with envy and reaching for the curling wand, share your knowledge. Don’t keep it to yourself. Keep the curl #HaiRevolution going. After all, looking good is feeling great. Shake it, toss it, flick it, work it! Walk along the street with your head held high and your curls big.

Guest author Esther Roche an ever so slightly bonkers English girl, who splits her time between being a working mother of two crazy boys and creating blogs for Hairy Thoughts Esther has been in the throes of a long love affair with hair from that day forward. Esther has had many roles within the hairdressing industry, working as a stylist, colour specialist, salon manager and mentor. If it’s hairy and fabulous, Esther and the team at HTUK are all over it and are sharing it with the ever growing army of Hairy Followers